COUNTRY

lifeScotland’s rural lifestyle magazinestyyleSCOTLAND Autumn 2014 All eyes on the grouse A day’s shooting on the ‘Glorious 12th’

Preview of Scotland’s new food and drink event, Eat Drink Discover Scotland Wax Artwork the Biscuit Scottish - what to buy Moocoo way cushions travel

For your FREE e-edition subscription to Country Lifestyle Scotland, register at www.countrylifestylescotland.co.uk

COUNTRY

lifeSCOTLAND’S RURAL LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE SCOTLAND Welcome to the autumn 2014 issue of Country Lifestyle Scotland. There is no avoiding the turn in the seasons and this issue reflects that with a feature on ladies wax jackets for the coming damp days, and also a feature on hand made cosy cushions to snuggle up to during the dark nights. A couple of terrific Scottish destinations are featured in this issue, with the view of the Clyde estuary taking a starring role, along with a special rate for farmers; and a lovely country food and drink: homes: cottage retreat in Peebles which looks very Showcasing Scotland’s Home furnishings biscuit style inviting. excellence in food production - Nikki McWilliams’ cushion Karen at Eat Drink Discover Scotland and accessories range karen carruth, editor [email protected] pages 4 to 6 pages 13 to 17 Contact:

Also: Editor: Karen Carruth Tel. 0141 302 7750 [email protected] Grouse shooting on Sales executive: Paul Johnstone Tel. 0141 302 7368 the Glorious 12th [email protected] pages 8 to 11 Sales executive: Karen McKenzie Tel. 0141 302 7756 [email protected] What wax to buy - Marketing: David Boyle Tel. 0141 302 7719 the dilemma [email protected] Advertising production: Joyce Brady Tel. 0141 302 7747 pages 21 to 24 [email protected] PA to publisher: Hannah Davidson Tel. 0141 302 7722 art: Travel takes us to two [email protected] destinations - Peebles Country Hairy Highland cattle star in and down the Lifestyle @countrylifescot the Moocoo range Clyde estuary Scotland pages 34 to 42 www.countrylifestylescotland.co.uk pages 27 to 32 Published by Newsquest Herald and Times Group Magazines, Glasgow

COUNTRYlifestyle / 3 food

CLS asks RHASS chief executive, Stephen Hutt, to tell us a little more about the event Scotland has a few show including a stellar line-up of to the show audience. For the businesses? successful food events Scottish chefs. What other shows visitor, our regional structure Exhibitors signed up range from don’t offer show-goers, and can means that show-goers will get a the small ‘one man band’ start already, do you think be found at Eat Drink Discover sense of the regional specialities up through to the bigger brands. there is a need for Scotland, is the opportunity and local flavours of Scotland as Feedback indicates that our another one? to have a hands-on cooking they explore the show. stand prices are regarded as Eat Drink Discover Scotland is experience with our celebrity being very reasonable by the the only consumer food and drink chefs. How many exhibitors majority of businesses. show that focuses exclusively on We’re also launching two are you expecting to showcasing Scottish produce. theatres dedicated to giving a platform to our exhibitors - all attract? Is the show being Scottish food and drink producers There will be more than 100 touted specifically to Will this event offer and businesses. The Skills exhibitors present at the show. the general consumer anything to exhibitors/ Theatre and the Tastings and or to trade buyers? show-goers that the Talks theatre will give exhibitors Are the stand prices Eat Drink Discover Scotland is other ones do not? the opportunity to promote competitive enough primarily a consumer show. There’s a packed programme their unique skills, host a tasting to attract the smaller There is a business-to- of added-value features to the session or launch a new product business element in the form 4 / COUNTRYlifestyle For your FREE e-edition subscription to Country Lifestyle Scotland, register at www.countrylifestylescotland.co.uk Eat Drink Discover Scotland The new food event just for Scotland By Karen Carruth home and abroad. This unique Who is going to be there? event will allow producers from all SOME OF the exhibitors to A MAJOR new food and drink over Scotland to showcase the superb food and drink their area look out for: exhibition will open its doors on Scottish Seaweed seasonings September 12 to September 14 is famous for and demonstrate the array of Scottish delicacies.” by Mara to Celtic Cross Cider in a bid to provide a showcase by Thistly Cross Cider, Eat for Scotland’s food and drink Spearheading the event delivery is RHASS’ chief Drink Discover Scotland industry. will be showcasing local The brainchild of the Royal executive, Stephen Hutt. Mr Hutt added: “Our overarching vision producers from each region in Highland and Agricultural Society Scotland and, with the show of Scotland (RHASS), the event for Eat Drink Discover Scotland is to create a national platform to laid out by region, consumers entitled Eat Drink Discover will be able to taste their way Scotland, will have more allow food and drink businesses to succeed. around the country, in one than 100 exhibitors gathered day, under one roof. together at the Royal Highland Visit www. eatdrinkdiscoverscotland. All That’s Delicious, Education Centre at Ingliston, Strathearn Distillery, The near Edinburgh, to give both the co.uk to find out more about exhibitor information such as early Puffer Food Company, public and trade the chance to The Wee Pie Company, enjoy the rich diversity of regional bird incentives and opportunities to showcase demonstrations, and Nairns Oatcakes are foods and provide an opportunity among the list of businesses for smaller rural and regional food new products or host skills demonstrations. showcasing their Scottish producers to share centre-stage produce at the event. with more established brands. Taking place at The Royal Highland Centre, Saturday and Sunday will have a distinct consumer flavour with a strong retail offering enhanced with chef master classes, a food theatre and creative educational experiences for children delivered by RHASS’ educational charity, The Royal Highland Education Trust. Friday’s focus will be ‘trade day’ with a specific remit to engender business collaboration, create up-skilling opportunities and initiate ‘meet-the-buyer’ sessions. Allan Murray, RHASS’ chairman explained the rationale for the new event: “Eat Drink CLS asks RHASS chief executive, Stephen Hutt, to tell us a little more about the event Discover Scotland” is part of the of a series of business Society’s broader strategy to growth seminars, sponsored support rural Scotland. Building by Brodies LLP, which on the success of the Royal will take place prior to the Highland Show’s Food Hall, show opening on the Friday this national event, with strong morning. regional focuses, will provide a We have no doubt that as compelling case for celebrating many businesses are using Scotland’s food culture.” the show as a platform to Welcomed by Richard launch and showcase new Lochhead, Cabinet Secretary products, many buyers and for Rural Affairs and the agents will be there, and Environment, Eat Drink Discover the seminar programme Scotland, is expected to deliver will feature Buyer Briefing more than £1million to the sessions, but the show is Scottish economy in its first year. not set up as a trade show, Mr Lochhead said: “Scotland’s which would be organised in a fantastic natural larder is a huge different format. selling point to people both at

COUNTRYlifestyle / 5 food Eat Drink Discover Scotland IN THE run up to Eat Drink Discover Scotland, organisers Show’s search have been searching for secret ingredients that turn our very for secret own signature dishes into something that little bit special. They have toured the country, ingredient covering 11 regions, looking for six finalists to take part in a cook-off winner finds on the Saturday of the show. Award winning chef Mark three of its Greenaway, has spearheaded the search to unearth the ingredients Scottish cooks cannot do without. six finalists in The public were invited to reveal their favourite Scottish ingredient Glasgow - the criteria ranged from herbs to condiments, alcohol to meats and been shortlisted for her favourite even vegetables - provided they ingredient, courgette flowers. Viv were either grown or produced buys them from award winning in Scotland. Eat Drink Discover retailer, Ardross Farm Shop, in Elie, Scotland visited and spoke to Fife. local suppliers to find out what customers bought, and why, FINALISTS: whilst Mark Greenaway kept a Joyce Brady making Sea Salt and weekly food for thought blog, Caramel Fudge using Hebridean discussing Scottish regional Sea Salt (Highlands & Islands). ingredients he uses in particular David Porter making a rack of ribs dishes. from Scottish Goat Meat Company The finalists were chosen by (Grampian). Viv Lumsden making This familiar face to Scottish viewers, Viv Lumsden, is among the finalists with Mark, from recipes they sent Stuffed Courgette Flowers with her courgette flowers from Ardross Farm Shop in Fife in, and they will appear on Courgette Flowers from Ardross the Saturday of the show in a Farm Shop (Kingdom of Fife). Liz ‘masterchef’ type set up, where Robinson making a champagne they will be asked to recreate their drink using Seabuckthorn from recipe live in front of an audience. Wild and Scottish (Edinburgh and They will be given a half hour and the Lothians). Kirstie Wadwell Mark will then choose the winner making Beef and Barley Casserole from the final dishes. using braising steak from Ronnie The winner of the cook off Stalker Butchers (Ayrshire, Arran gets a luxury hamper and the and Argyll). opportunity to award the supplier of their ‘secret ingredient’ with a free stand at next year’s Eat Drink INFORMATION: Discover Scotland event. Ticket prices: £15 on the gate, Some of the wonderful recipes £12.50 for concessions. Advance that turned up ranged from haggis online tickets are £12.50. pakoras to bee pollen topped Masterclass hands-on cookery cranachan, giving Mark a difficult with star chefs must be booked at job in finding finalists. £25 for one person or £40 for two Among the finalists is a familiar people sharing a workstation and face to Scottish TV viewers. Viv cooking the same dish. Lumsden, broadcaster and the www.eatdrinkdiscover face of ‘The Home Show’ has scotland.co.uk

Chef Mark Greenaway has selected six finalists to take part in the cook-off at the show to discover Scotland’s best secret ingredient 6 / COUNTRYlifestyle country sports Linda Mellor takes us along on a trip to bag her first grouse TheGlorious

Rolly, the Springer Spaniel, gets to work Headkeeper, Mark Ancliffe

8 / COUNTRYlifestyle For your FREE e-edition subscription to Country Lifestyle Scotland, register at www.countrylifestylescotland.co.uk Linda Mellor takes us along on a trip to bag her first grouse 12th

A couple of members of the team are delighted with the day’s haul

THE OPEINING of the grouse quickly, sunshine then low cloud shooting season is commonly moved in to give us a couple of referred to as the glorious twelfth fleeting light showers. You had to and is a date marked in many keep one eye fixed on your feet calendars. A day at the grouse as it was hard going in places; is often viewed as the ultimate the heather was thick with deep Scottish shooting event and is gullies and a few surprising boggy estimated to be worth in excess holes. of £40 billion to the Scottish Alastair sent one of the dogs, economy. The grouse shooting Merlin, a black pointer, out to season starts on August 12 work in front of us. A mountain through to December 10. hare pops up above the heather The grouse is a medium sized and takes off. Suddenly, Merlin game bird found in heather stops and goes on point as he moorland across the UK and has picked up the scent of the Even the pointer dogs Ireland. Adult red grouse feed on birds. We closed in quietly as stop for a look at the stunning view heather, blaeberry, grass shoots, Chris loaded his gun and took up flowers, seeds and berries. The position. young grouse are fed on a diet of Merlin makes his way steadily insects for the first two to three and slowly through the heather, weeks before graduating to the his body rigid and eyes fixed on same diet as the adults. an area in front of him. Suddenly, I was invited to shoot grouse the birds are up, flying fast over pointers early on in the skimming the tops of the heather. season, a very traditional Chris takes aim and shoots. approach using trained pointers Alastair sends Rolly the spaniel to locate the birds in the heather. out to retrieve the bird, a fine first I was shooting with an American shot by Chris. friend, Chris Godfrey. We spent The intermittent rain showers the day with Head Keeper, refreshed and cooled us as we Alastair Lyon, his three German hunted Fraoch corrie below Benn Shorthaired Pointers and Springer Udlamain. Spaniel on North Drumochter, Ten-year-old Tabo, a liver and Ralia Estate in the Cairngorm white Pointer, worked in front of National Park. Texan Chris was us with his nose in the air before wearing a kilt for the occasion and abruptly going on point. Alastair was especially thankful for the moved in closer and motioned breeze keeping the midges away. me to get in position to shoot. We climbed two and a half My heart was thumping with miles up the long corrie path in excitement and everything was Alastair’s Land Rover and parked strangely silent as I loaded my up. The view was amazing as we gun and moved in. All my senses looked out to Ben Alder lodge were on high alert as Alastair gave on Loch Ericht. As we set off the signal. The birds exploded out downhill, the weather changed from the heather, I picked one and Continued on next page COUNTRYlifestyle / 9 country sports

Chris shooting (left), and Alastair, the keeper, on the right keeping an eye on things... dogs on alert at all times

The ‘team’ for the day’s shoot, wisely they are all dressed for the changing Scottish weather conditions

10 / COUNTRYlifestyle For your FREE e-edition subscription to Country Lifestyle Scotland, register at www.countrylifestylescotland.co.uk Continued from previous page fired. My first grouse! Some 3000 feet up, we sat in ‘A day at the the heather to eat our lunch; we listened to the distant cackle of grouse is often the grouse, watched a Merlin hunt and a rainbow spring to life over a viewed as distant loch. Refreshed and grateful of a rest, we headed off into the heather the ultimate once more. We had a number of successful points over some very Scottish challenging ground before ending our day on five and half brace. shooting event Driven grouse shooting is a rather different style of day and and is estimated can be accurately described as a high octane sport. I joined a to be worth shooting party in Fettercairn; it was a mild, calm day when head keeper Mark Ancliffe met us in in excess of the village car park. He led the procession of vehicles up the £40 billion to rustic track for miles onto the hill tops of Fasque Estate for a day at the Scottish driven grouse. To say it was windy was a huge economy’ understatement. As you opened the car doors you had to hang onto them as if your life depended spot on the hilltop as the food on it, the wind was so powerful it was prepared by a chef in the would have snatched them out back of one of the Range Rovers. of your grip. The wind speeds Everyone was in good spirits as exceeded 75mph that day, every they talked about their numerous piece of you had on had near misses. to be zipped up and buttoned After lunch, we headed out to A couple of dapper - left, keeper Alastair and right, Texan Chris, braving down, were tied to your head do battle in the butts for another the weather with his kilt on or you would lose them forever. two drives. I think the first drive of We made our way to the grouse the afternoon was my favourite butts for the first drive; we sat in of the day; we had massive open tight and waited for the birds to views across eastern Scotland appear. Suddenly they were over as far as Fife. You could see the the butts like rockets, twisting line of grouse butts on the hillside and curling making the most of and the birds coming in from a the windy conditions. The birds’ considerable distance. The pace speed was incredible, rendering of the birds was unrelenting as them practically impossible to they flew over and were out of shoot; even the most seasoned sight in the blink of an eye. By the grouse shot would have struggled time we made it back down the to bring any down. As we hill we all looked battle weary and gathered back at the vehicles for rather wind swept or as my dad elevenses there was a mixture of would say, we looked like we had excitement and shock on the guns been dragged through a hedge faces, and needless to say, much backwards! leg pulling. There are grouse days to Throughout the morning, Mark most budgets, it can be one of the and his team pushed the birds most exhilarating day’s sport you A very tempting lunch was served up to keep shooters going over the butts and the guns will ever experience and it takes managed to shoot a few. We part in some of the most beautiful stopped for lunch in a sheltered countryside in the world.

COUNTRYlifestyle / 11

For your FREE e-edition subscription to Country Lifestyle Scotland, register at www.countrylifestylescotland.co.uk home Nikki McWilliams combines her love of textiles and biscuits to bring us the biscuit cushion... sweet!

Bringing biscuits to the masses!ConContinued on next page COUNTRYlifestyle / 13 home

A selection of Nikki’s Bringing range of cushions biscuits to the masses!

By Kelly Finlay

IT WOULD be safe to say that almost everyone likes a wee biscuit on occasion; chocolate, plain, fancy – there is a world of biscuity choice out there, but for one young Scottish artist and designer, biscuits have literally become her way of life! Nikki McWilliams has taken her love of both textiles and all things biscuit, and combined the two to create a unique range of products that have been taking the market by storm. Nikki designs, makes and sells eye catching cushions and products shaped like a variety of instantly recognisable confectionery. These range from comfy cushions shaped like Tunnocks Tea Cakes, Party Rings, Digestives, Jammy Dodgers and Bourbon biscuits, among others, The digestive pocket mirror looks good enough to dunk to necklaces and phone covers adorned with Custard Creams and Tunnocks Caramel Wafers, and even to gift and sticky tape decorated in biscuit motifs. Having always been creative, Nikki, 28 from Alloa, then pursued a BA(Hons)degree in Fine Art at Duncan of Jordansone College of Art and Design in Dundee. “I’ve always been interested in making things” Nikki admits, “I think it’s mainly to do with the feeling of accomplishment that you get once you’ve finished and you can step back and look at what you’ve made. When I was really little I loved to draw – then when I got to school I’d always look forward to doing anything creative – to me that wasn’t like work. I chose to apply to go to Art School as I knew this is what I had the most passion for.” Having been successful at art school, but having also seeing the competition the world of design had in it, when Nikki graduated she took a position in retail full time, but started designing and making things in the corner of the living room of the shared flat she lived in at the time. She began selling her wares at markets and events whenever she could get holidays from her ‘day job’, and things have snowballed from there. Iphone cases, lampshades, and various other accessories are on Nikki’s website Continued on next page

14 / COUNTRYlifestyle For your FREE e-edition subscription to Country Lifestyle Scotland, register at www.countrylifestylescotland.co.uk

COUNTRYlifestyle / 15 home

Necklace or cushion – Nikki’s designs are bright and fun

Bringing biscuits Continued from previous page to the masseses!!

“I didn’t even consider doing The making up of the cushions Nikki has stuck to her roots Nikki admits that she is really any formal advertising as I is mainly done by Nikki, alongside online in that she has a very happy with how her business is couldn’t afford it but luckily I her mum Memnia, who has a successful shop via the Etsy progressing at the moment, and found social media which was the massive hand in the cushion website, but she has also around she is just now in the process of perfect way for word of mouth to manufacture in particular. 60 physical stockists around the moving her studio and workshops help spread the word about my “I’m so lucky to have her on UK. These include big names like to streamline production and work.” board,” Nikki happily admits, “She Selfridges, Fortnum and Mason, orders. Social media is still a massive has more experience behind a and Paperchase along with lots of Opening a physical store isn’t part of Nikki’s business, with a sewing machine than anyone amazing independent stores like something she’s ever looked to hugely successful Facebook I’ve ever met! My mum taught The Hambledon. do, but it’s certainly not something page and Twitter and Instagram me how to sew and use fabric to These outlets stock her she has ruled out if the right space accounts that attract thousands make things – she used to make cushions and her and came along. of fans. to be sold in Camden badges, ranges that are also “Long term I would love to build It was these outlets that saw when she was a teenager massively popular. our own custom studio/workshop the conception of the biscuit and went on to run her own The original Tunnocks Tea with enough space for us to do based designs, after a few less childrenswear and soft furnishings Cake cushions and the Custard everything under one roof. Just successful product ideas. Photos company when I was younger. Creams are particular best sellers, now that is the ideal long term posted online of the first original She helps a lot with my business and Nikki happily admits that the goal!” cushion (made on the couch in now – which I love as I know that dancing Teacakes made famous Nikki’s designs and range her flat) garnered a huge positive making things is something that in the Commonwealth Games of products are certainly eye response. she enjoys and it’s nice being able opening ceremony caused a nice catching and unique and they’ve Nikki sketches all her designs to work together. little boost in business. appeared in numerous magazines herself by hand, and then scans “My family are all creative and She has a personal relationship and even in celebrities homes in the pages onto her computer inspire me. My Dad writes and with the Tunnocks set up, and the pictures they post online. where she can play with colour plays guitar and my brother David admits they’re a great, family run They look good in any home, and scale. In the beginning she is a structural engineer who business to be involved with. and they’re comfy and functional printed all of the cushions by has promised to design me my Things are always expanding – not just for show! hand with a screen printer, but own house someday – so I’ll be too, with a few new designs in the “I love functional objects that can after a few very busy Christmases holding him to that!” pipeline that have been printed have a place out with a gallery setting and consequently very achey Nikki’s Mum herself also has a and that should hopefully be in and in people’s everyday lives.” arms she made the decision to cushion line, recently launching production for Christmas time. And with a range of such get the printing done elsewhere. her own line of Harris Tweed “Designing new things is my cuddly and fun to wear products, Everything is still printed in the UK designs which are doing really – favourite part of the process” Nikki Nikki has certainly achieved that! however, before arriving at the with online orders coming in from tells us, “new products are always www.nikkimcwilliams.com workshop to be made up. around the world. exciting!”

16 / COUNTRYlifestyle homes

Bulb teapot - this stoneware pot has quite an unusual shape, but lovely cheery colours, comes with a stainless steel strainer. £33.00 from www.in-spaces. com Dotty teapot This Japanese style teapot has bamboo handles. £24.00 from www.idyllhome.co.uk Time for

teIsn’t it always? Maybea? it’s an age thing, but suddenly teapots are on the ‘must buy’ list. There are some beautiful tea and coffee pots with price tags to fit every budget, here are just a few. Coffee anyone? Folklore enamel coffee pot, with enchanted forest decoration. £19.95 from www.cloth-ears.co.uk

This has a real country kitchen feel to it. The meadow flowers hand painted teapot, part of the Laura Lee collection. £30.00 from Elephant teapot www.lauraleedesigns.co.uk Quirky little white elephant porcelain teapot. £12.95 from www.rigbyandmac.com

La Cafetiere cream coco chocolate pot Stove chocolate or coffee pot. The combination of warm milk and its frother can create an afternoon of Cheap and cheerful luxurious coffee or hot Lace Teapot, chocolate. Just £7.50 from £45.00 from www. Tesco creativetops.com

COUNTRYlifestyle / 17 The Glasgow Wedding Collective has all your wedding needs taken care of Organising a wedding can be a stressful experience, so take the pain out of ‘finding’ your perfect suppliers by taking advantage of the experts involved in The Glasgow Wedding Collective (GWC). The GWC showcases a handpicked bridal market experience at The Lighthouse in Glasgow three times a year, and offers an online bridal resource at www.theglasgowweddingcollective.co.uk. It’s the only place in Scotland where independent and artisan suppliers can shout about their unique talents and wares in a friendly supplier family. Each member of the GWC is vetted and selected to join for their modernity, creativity and aesthetic, thus ensuring a top quality supplier offering at all time. There are currently more than 120 members of the GWC, which continues to grow with more wedding supplier talent selected every month. The next GWC bridal market is on Sunday, September 28, at The Lighthouse, 11 Mitchell Lane, Glasgow, and entry is free.

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Working the Wax jackets have made the leap from the countryside to the High Street, helped by the surge in demand for Barbour’s stylish fitted jackets that are such a hit with the younger generation. Nowadays, Barbour has some stiff competition from other high end jacket makers that have crashed the market with their designs and we have picked a selection of jackets in three different price brackets for you to check out. We have £200 plus, under £200, and under £100. There really is something for every purse when buying wax, but I would recommend that your spend reflects how much ‘real’ work your jacket is going to see. Dubarry Swift waxed jacket wax RRP: £299 £200 plus A multi-pocket belted jacket with hour-glass silhouette and GORE- TEX® liner. 100% polyester lightweight microfibre Barbour white hart waxed with a smooth and soft hand-feel. jacket Price: £259.00 A 151g/m² polyester weave made with From the Tourer collection, the White Oxford optic. Hart is an incredibly warm women’s Self with faux biker jacket crafted with a quilted waxed buckle outer. Hourglass seam Cut for a flattering shape complete detail with a waist-cinching belt, with a funnel Adjustable studded collar and neck strap, zipped cuffs and cuff contrasting metal hardware. Multiple outer Signature Dubarry pockets and an angled chest pocket while chain hang loop the diamond-quilted creates the Classic Dubarry classic Barbour look. branding www.barbour.com

Musto Whisper jacket Dubarry Leslie ladies jacket Prices vary online, but best RRP: £449 price found at going to press was £214.99 from Ahaaa, not wax www.outofthecity. you say! Well, co.uk you are right, but it is a Dubarry Durably waterproof, shooting jacket, highly breathable, both waterproof windproof, and breathable polyester synthetic cotton, which is a suede outer with major plus if you 100% waterproof are planning on GORE-TEX® exposing it to the performance elements on a drop liner. regular basis. Removable two- way adjustable www. peaked . dubarryboots. Machine com washable.

COUNTRYlifestyle / 21 fashion

Toggi Ambia ladies wax jacket with hood best price found online at under £200 time of press is £111.30 from www.grayscountryclothing. co.uk

The Toggi ladies Ambia soft wax jacket is lined in Toggi’s signature house check fabric. Design features include a stylish built in hood, adjustable waist and hem, YKK zips and a storm flap to keep the elements at bay. Zip pockets and zip closing cuffs complete the look.

Barbour Garsdale waxed jacket Price: £199.00

From the Barbour Country collection, the Garsdale Jacket is a women’s wax jacket with a warm quilted .

Made with a waxed cotton outer that offers robust weather protection, and fastens with a smart button-close placket through to a moleskin-lined collar, which can be raised and secured with the throat tab for additional weather defence. Deep handwarmer pockets, while two button-fastening lower pockets provide plenty of room to keep essential items close by. Contrast Barbour embroidery trims the lower left pocket flap. www.barbour.com

Barbour Alloy waxed jacket

On sale at time of presss at £170.00 The Alloy jacket is a classic, belted biker jacket featuring a traditional waxed cotton outer and a feminine, fitted shape. Four patch pockets, a fabric belt and a turn-up lined collar. Northumberland check cotton lining and profile stitching to the elbows and shoulders adds a retro edge, while a flattering cut and branded studs give a laid-back elegance. Available in black or chillli red, from www.barbour.com

22 / COUNTRYlifestyle For your FREE e-edition subscription to Country Lifestyle Scotland, register at www.countrylifestylescotland.co.uk

Jack Murphy Bernadette waxed jacket RRP: £150 under £200 Colours available: Rich Brown, Olive, Deep Claret

A distinctive wax style with quilted , the Bernadette is beautifully elegant and features cosy accent coloured fleece lining. Finishing touches include traditional cord detail to collar, quilt stitching detail to cape and pockets, patch pockets with side entry, branded antique brass snaps with contrast illustrated branded snaps to cape and hem for added interest, antique brass zip with branded puller, branded pin badge to pocket and internal drawstring for a flattering silhouette.

Jack Murphy Sallygap waxed jacket (left)

RRP: £150 Available in Rich Brown, Deep Claret, True Black

The Sallygap is a cosy faux sherpa-lined waxed jacket with internal drawstring for a more flattering shape when preferred. Finishing touches include branded antique brass snaps with single contrast illustrated branded snap at hem for added interest, branded pin badge to pocket, contemporary zip detail to patch pockets with branded antique brass puller, dipped hem to reverse with back vents to allow movement and branded leather tab to reverse. Buy online or find a stockist at www.jackmurphy.eu

Toggi Luella ladies semi- fitted wax jacket

Best price found online at time of press is £159 from www.countryandstable.co.uk

Adjustable waist and hem with front patch pockets with Toggi brass poppers. Front zipped chest pockets Adjustable belt and cuffs Front zip fastening concealed by placket, fastened with Toggi brass poppers. Toggi house check lining Toggi tin of wax and carrying bag included

COUNTRYlifestyle / 23 fashion For your FREE e-edition subscription to Country Lifestyle Scotland, register at www.countrylifestylescotland.co.uk ...under £100 South waxed belted jacket Savoir Waxed Jacket £55.00 from www.very. co.uk On sale between £20 to £27.00 Long sleeve hooded from jacket with zip and www.littlewoods. popper front fastening. com Belted buckle style with removable hood and Belted jacket in waxed finish. a waxed finish Available in khaki, navy. fabric. Popper Machine washable. and zip fastening. With two front patch pockets and corduroy collar and trims. Fully lined. Available in: Green, Navy. Machine washable.

Voi Belted Waxed Jacket (below)

On sale at time of press at £47.50 from £95.00 from www.simplybe.co.uk

Wax-coated and showerproof. Buckle fastening, adjustable waist belt. Funnel neck and press- stud front fastening. Machine washable.

Jack Murphy Ruffous Waxed Available in rich brown, deep claret, olive. RRP £35.00 A fetching waxed hat, the Ruffous features Jack Murphy signature Classic Check lining and quilted brim with a touch of luxurious faux fur for added interest. Buy online or find a stockist at www. jackmurphy.eu South Contrast Waxed

On sale from £19.00 to £24.50 depending on size from www.isme.com

Long line coated jacket with hood. Zip and popper front. Contrast lining. Availabe in khaki and navy. Machine washable.

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If you would like your artwork featured in CLS, contact [email protected] art

The wildhaired Highland cattle are a firm favourite with Ben’s customers

By Karen Carruth

HAVING A natural artistic talent is a gift indeed, but having the business head to turn that talent into a full time career involves something of a steeper learning Ben paints it the curve for most. Ben Braithwaite, 25, has taken his first step into the art world and is sure there is a market for his brand of artwork, which he calls Moocoo. A brightly coloured, playful interpretation of the animals that inspire Ben in his everyday life. Speaking from the kitchen of his family home in Doune, in Moocoo Stirlingshire, Ben tells me that art wasn’t his first choice as a career. “ I hadn’t painted for a while, so I Now that he is two years down Up until two years ago he was thought I would do something for the line, Ben is still developing his working his way through a degree my mum’s birthday which was style and can see changes from course in graphic design with the coming up.” his early work, but the Moocoo way aim of finding a job in a publishers Ben gave his mum the painting style is distinctive and he has no or design agency, but a chance and she duly framed it and put it plans to change it, just tweak it as painting he did of a close up of a above the range, where it still has he takes on new subjects. Highland cow’s face turned his pride of place. As is so often the Highland cattle are a never career plans upside down. case, friends and family started ending gift to artists. All that gold “I was in Newcastle and commenting on it and asking and orange flowing hair, the horns, thoughts had turned to home,” whether Ben could do something the irresistible cuteness of the he says, waving his hand at the for them, and as the commissions calves, and, of course, the intrinsic eyecatching view of rolling farmland came in, the idea of Moocoo Scottish-ness that they portray out of the wide-open patio doors. became a reality. has been featured in paintings for continued on next page COUNTRYlifestyle / 27 art

continued from previous page generations, and Ben has his own take on our national coo. Highland cattle paintings are proving his most popular, with work being sold all over the UK and an emerging interest in the US, as he finds his way into the market using social media as the fantastic tool it is, he is getting his work featured on various sites that can further his commercial reach. On the commission front, Ben says that dogs and cattle are his most popular subject, and he has a wide range of breeds that he has tackled, which can be seen on his website. Customers send in four or five photographs of their animal, which gives Ben the chance to view the animal from different angles and he sets to work. Within a week the customer will get a draft of the painting to make sure he is on the right road, and then he finishes it and has it delivered to the door. He has painted cattle, dogs, goats, pigs, chickens, stags, hares, foxes, horses, and even the occasional cat. But he does love to return to the Highland cattle which suit his wild/shaggy style, as he calls it, so well. He uses acrylic, but also works in oil depending on the subject, and he has enjoyed working on some really large sized paintings recently. Some as large as one metre by one metre, a painting this size will provide a wow factor in any room. “I did a huge painting for a friend which was 2.5m x 2.5m, a scene of cowboys corralling cattle, a change of direction for me, but I’m happy to branch out and try new things.” Getting your work in front of customers is an important goal for artists, and Ben has worked hard over the last couple of years getting his work exhibited, particularly in exhibitions that show young up and coming artists. “It all helps spread the word,” he says. ‘Commissions for a painting At the moment most of his sales are through his own website, but he also sells work on the website Etsy, of beloved dogs, cats and which is huge marketplace for artists and crafts people, who want to sell direct to the public. even a goat have had the The back end of this year will see Ben concentrate on the Country Living Fair in London in November, Moocoo treatment’ his first year exhibiting there. The fair is a huge market place for artists and crafters throughout the UK, and he hopes he hits the Christmas shopping market with his paintings, prints, notecards and his latest Ben paints it the addition to the merchandise, place mats. A pack of six, each featuring a different painting of his Highland Moocoos will be on sale at £30, and he hopes to add larger boards for the centre of the table, which Moocoo will add maximum impact to a table display. way Continued on next page

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Ben has taken over a room at his family home in Doune, in Stirlingshire, as his Moocoo studio COUNTRYlifestyle / 29 art

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In the future Ben hopes to have towards whoever they are being another go at painting a range of commissioned for to make a great, African wildlife, after he completed original present. a lion and really enjoying the To view a wider range of his Ben paints it the process. He would like to tie in work, or to contact Ben for a a planned visit to Africa in a bid commission, go to www.moocoo. to put together a whole range of co.uk or check out his facebook African artwork which will further page on www.facebook.com/ develop his style and widen his Moocoobenbraithwaite. His email potential audience. address is: [email protected]. Commissions are in the range Moocoo Ben is a young, well spoken man who enjoys playing sports of £200 - £250 for 40cmx50cm like rugby and golf, as well as canvases. way taking part in country pursuits, like shooting and fishing and has a whole creative path in front of him to explore. Already he has tackled a few murals which he really enjoyed, and is happy to try his hand at any subject, whether landscape or portrait in a bid to find his niche - his calm, personable outlook will, I’m sure, serve him well as he finds his feet in the art world. He has a range of ‘Major Moo’ paintings, developed from an experiment he tried last year. This painting was of a Highland cow’s head, in an old army style jacket as a portrait. He has now started taking on personalised commissions of these with requests to have additions such as a team tie, a business logo on the jacket, or anything else that will individualise a ‘Major Moo’ to hint

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A Moocoo painting makes a striking focal point in any room

Moocoo table mats are the latest addition to Ben’s range. They cost £30 for a pack of six each featuring a different painting, and are available online

COUNTRYlifestyle / 31 storage Wellies be gone! Out of sight, out of mind! We realise how much we need our wellies, but do they have to be lying all around the back door, or worse, in the house? Here are a few options to keep our beloved rubber out of sight.

Personalised welly rack. Simple and effective design and reasonably priced. Comes in a variety of colours to choose from. This practical personalised wooden welly rack is a great way of keeping boots tidy and floors clean, can be used indoors or out. Can be personalised with one line of 30 characters. Size: 52cm x 20cm x 2cm £34.00 from www.notonthehighstreet. Crates on skates - if the wellies won’t come to the com crate... take the crate to the wellies. Planter crates provide great storage for wellies, , toys and books or even for kindling and logs for the fire. Based on the traditional apple crate, they are available in four colours and can be personalised to order. £60.00 from www.lovestruckinteriors.com

An impressive piece to Wall mounted welly racks handmade in either pine or grace any home. Solid oak to keep your wellies upside down out of the wet, as oak, handmade welly well as keeping any pesky pests from crawling in. Racks stand personalised to available for 2-6 pairs of boots. Can be used indoors suit your needs. Can be or out, as the wood is treated with hard wearing yacht made in practically any varnish to withstand the elements. Prices from £39.99 size required, in a variety for a rack for two pairs up to £74.99 for six pairs (in of configurations. Sealed pine), from http://bootandsaw.co.uk against the elements, it can be stored inside or outdoors. Available from various online sites, prices start at £195, best price at going to press was at www. giftwrappedandgorgeous. co.uk

It may not be stylish, but it’s cheap and it does the job. Ideal to screw to the wall to keep boots Oak welly and rack with seat. This tidy piece off the ground, at this of furniture can be made to accommodate three price you can afford pairs of wellies with a shoe rack underneath. The This spruce wood outdoor shoe store is a great idea to buy a few to line integrated seat gives you the chance to park your for popping by the front or back door to store muddy up the families boots backside while trying to wrestle your wellies off. wellies and walking boots. There is enough room all in the one place. £250–£350 depending on size of rack www. to store 4-5 pairs of boots and with its pitched roof it Only £7.00 from www. bootandsaw.co.uk has been designed with Scottish weather in mind! aplaceforeverything. £165.00 from www.aplaceforeverything.co.uk co.uk

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Four star luxury with a five star view, at Gavinburn Holiday Cottages, near Old Kilpatrick

Clyde panorama from Gavinburn

34 / COUNTRYlifestyle If you would like your holiday accommodation featured in CLS, contact [email protected]

By Kayley Kennedy

NESTLED IN the hillside with panoramic views over the river Clyde, you would be forgiven for thinking you were miles away from civilisation and not tucked away in the fabulous four-star Gavinburn Cottages, a mere fifteen-minute drive from both Glasgow and Loch Lomond. The stunning view, whether it be along the Clyde as it makes its way out to sea or to the twinkling lights of Glasgow in the distance, is the first thing that grabs you as you climb up towards the cottages. Another is Alex Fleming and his wife, Leigh- Anne’s warm welcome as you gather your surroundings and take in the traditional Victorian cottage and more modern building to your left. Alex Fleming and wife The former is the old house containing three Leigh-Anne provide refurbished dwellings – the one-bedroomed the warm welcome at Glenmorangie, the Glengoyne with two bedrooms Gavinburn Continued on next page COUNTRYlifestyle / 35 travel

The panoramic view available from the cottages Clyde panorama from Gavinburn

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and the Auchentoshan which has four – which was completed a mere two years ago. Each beautiful cottage features a large, open living area with a wood burning stove and an ultra-modern kitchen with all appliances giving visitors a real home from home, luxury feeling while the outdoor space lends itself to the views and, of course, the Blackface sheep and Highland cows grazing in the surrounding fields. “The property formed part There are two original cottages (above) and two new builds both with classy interiors of the family farm and so when the long-term tenants moved out it gave us the opportunity to develop the house into luxury holiday cottages. It’s a great location and the views are unbeatable, meaning it was full of business potential. The first development took three months from start to finish as the houses were completely refurbished and the fact that we were able to get planning for another two properties clinched the decision to move back from Aberdeenshire to focus on the cottages full time,” explained Alex, a past auctioneer based at Perth and Huntly markets who still works on a consultancy basis for Scotia Homes’ Bill Bruce at Logie Estate, helping out with anything from windmills to selling bulls from the the herd of pedigree Aberdeen-Angus cattle. This background has made Alex a very popular man for after dinner speeches and he Space, light and comfort assured still keeps in touch with many in the farming sector.

36 / COUNTRYlifestyle If you would like your holiday accommodation featured in CLS, contact [email protected]

The new build cottages were completed on July 31, 2013, on a tight deadline as Alex had taken bookings for the following day! This pair of two-bedroomed cottages, the Glenlivet and the Macallan, are built on the footprint of the old sheep shep foundations on a single level, making them ideal for disabled access. The bright and airy bedrooms are linked to open plan living room, kitchen and dining areas with cathedral ceilings and French doors leading out to a patio area, again taking advantage of the views. Each cottage features stunning framed photographs from around Scotland and Glasgow, enticing visitors to get out and explore their surroundings. They also boast a large utility room with laundry appliances and freezers for each of the cottages. In all, the group of cottages at Gavinburn can sleep up to 22, with all bedrooms giving the option of twin or super- king beds, meaning they are perfect for large family or social gatherings or, equally, a traditional, cosy getaway for both long and short stays. All rooms, which “To add a little extra touch can be made and truly welcome our guests to into either twin Scotland, each group receives or super-king, a welcome hamper of Scottish are spacious goodies, including a selection and tastefully of basics like bread, milk and decorated butter, a breakfast pack, some trusty Tunnocks teacakes and a miniature of whisky relative to their cottage’s namesake,” said Alex. There are further treats in store too as the nearest distillery, Auchentoshan, offers exclusive free tours for guests and nearby businesses such as Mar Hall, the Corinthian and local spas and golf courses, offer special discounts to all visitors. “We’ve had a real mix of customers from Scandinavia,

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COUNTRYlifestyle / 37 travel

Modern trends are for open plan living, and Gavinburn has followed the fashion for high ceilings and open plan living and dining

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Australia and all over the world, but one couple from Manchester have just notched up their sixth time with us. “We also know how difficult it can be for farmers to get away and take time for themselves so we even offer them a special discount!” said Alex, adding that this forms part of their successful ‘farmers need holidays too’ campaign. The close location to Glasgow allows international visitors the option of flying in or taking the train and also allows Alex to continue to provide for all his customers’ needs as he offers a collection service in the sleek Land Rover Discovery he runs in a unique brand partnership with Peter Vardy Ltd, who also support his after dinner speaking and charity auction work. Such has been the interest in Gavinburn Cottages that they were booked out for the 2014 Commonwealth Games by December 2012 and had more than 2000 email enquiries after that. All the mod cons are on offer in the stylish kitchens They are running at 80% occupancy for the past year, with the majority of interest coming from the Gavinburn outdoorsy types, Loch Lomond a network of paths mapped Contact: webpage, which the team keep lies a short drive away for those more than 100 years ago by www.gavinburncottages.com regularly updated and focus on wishing to take part in some Lord Blantyre of Mar Hall. Tel. 01389 841815 keeping their clients as informed munro bagging or water sports. But then again, no matter as possible. Closer to home, there’s plenty what your plans are during a For those looking for nearby hill walking in the area including visit to Scotland, Gavinburn activities, Glasgow lies a short the Kilpatrick Hills on the lends itself to being the ideal train ride or drive away for a spot cottages doorstep, as well as base for a holiday in the west of city life while, for the more plenty mountain bike trails along and beyond.

38 / COUNTRYlifestyle If you would like your holiday accommodation featured in CLS, contact [email protected]

Hotel standard bathrooms offer both a bath and shower facilities

Examples of the food hamper that will await you on arrival

There may be a little something to warm you from the inside out when you arrive

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The house sits in the beautiful grounds of Callands House, which was once owned by one of Scotland’s greatest shipping magnates A home from home – Holidaying in the Scottish Borders By Helen Cross to understand why so many fall going to enjoy a long weekend of allowing you to enjoy a G&T or NOW DON’T get me wrong, under the spell of this glorious undisturbed peace and quiet in two outside in the sunshine or I don’t mind roughing it every region, known once as a premier our very own space. The house breakfast in the morning, alfresco once in a while. I’ve done the textile manufacturing centre. sits in the beautiful grounds of style. whole camping thing when Steeped in history, the Callands House, which was once With two beautifully decorated we’ve gone on vacation. sweeping valleys and rolling owned by one of Scotland’s double bedrooms and two However, I can only really deal hills really do captivate your greatest shipping magnates. charming twin bedrooms, this with soggy sandwiches, lukewarm imagination and it makes the ideal The house itself is very homely is the ideal retreat for families or tea and freezing temperatures setting if what you’re after is a and you can tell a huge amount for groups of friends. As there occasionally, especially when slower and more peaceful pace of effort has gone into making were only two of us, there was no holidaying in Scotland. What of life. it feel just like home. Entering shortage of space! Complete with I really love, however, about After browsing through Unique through the room, which a contemporary shower room holidaying on our doorstep is Cottages carefully selected provides an ideal space for wellies downstairs, there is also a very the large selection of beautiful collection of properties, we and walking boots, the modern stylish bathroom upstairs with a self catering accommodation, came across Callands Cottage, kitchen and dining room is warm double ended bath, allowing you providing you with a home from located between the picturesque and welcoming, providing a great take in the stunning surrounding home when you want to get away village of Peebles and the historic space for keen cooks to cook up countryside while you enjoy a long from it all. So who really needs conservation village of West a storm while also hosting super soak. canvas? Linton. dinner parties. So, while we had struck Our most recent spontaneous Although only a 40 minute drive At the heart of the cottage is it lucky with regards to our staycation took us a short from Edinburgh, you really could a wonderful double height sitting accommodation, what would we drive to the Scottish Borders. be miles away from anywhere, room which is light and bright with do to pass the time during our Boasting an excellent food and adding to its appeal. comfy leather sofas and a wood long weekend in the Borders? drink scene and a wide range Driving down the tree lined burning stove, ideal for when the As we were to discover, a long of outdoor activities to choose road leading up to the substantial temperature dips. The living room weekend really isn’t quite long from (and exhaust you) it’s easy detached cottage, which sits in its also allows you to step into the enough. own garden; we knew we were large garden through patio doors, With the weather very much on 40 / COUNTRYlifestyle For your FREE e-edition subscription to Country Lifestyle Scotland, register at www.countrylifestylescotland.co.uk travel

A large dining table and spacious kitchen has me imagining large groups gathered for family get- togethers

Space, comfy sofas, large TV and wood burning stove - what’s not to like!

our side, we made the most of the why. character. Located right on the Innerleithen to sample Caldwells’ sunshine. The Scottish Borders is To warm up we cycled into main street, I can imagine this will selection of ice-cream. You can a great patch if you fancy yourself the quaint village of West Linton, be a popular stopping place for also easily spend an afternoon as the next Bradley Wiggins. complete with village green, play cyclists. in Peebles, browsing its beautiful The roads are very quiet, park, May’s tea room and its very Now we had a handle of the craft shops and enjoying its making them ideal for exploring own championship golf course. roads, we ventured along the delectable coffee shops while this beautiful region on two Celebrity TV chef, Tony Singh, Tweed Valley Railway Path. watching the world go by. For wheels. You’ll find, however, you has also recently taken over the This is only a five mile those looking for more of an won’t be alone. We came across a helm of The Old Bake House route linking Innerleithen and adventure and to get the adrenalin large number of middle aged men Restaurant, breathing new life into Peebles, following the River pumping, then the mountain clad in Lycra taking to the roads this well established village eatery, Tweed. However, it provides a by bike. And I can understand whilst also maintaining its original great opportunity to stop off in Continued on next page COUNTRYlifestyle / 41 travel For your FREE e-edition subscription to Country Lifestyle Scotland, register at www.countrylifestylescotland.co.uk

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biking centres at Glentress and Innerleithen are definitely for you. I’ll stick to the roads for now. Having worked up an appetite we justified our visit to Whitmuir Farm Shop, located just along the road from Callands. Whitmuir is a real working organic farm, which is also the only community owned farm in Scotland. Showcasing a large selection of organic and sustainable produce, this really is a one stop shop for all foodies, so go armed with your wallet. As well as a beautiful and well stocked farm shop and butchery, there is also a licensed restaurant serving seasonal home cooked food. All the cakes, breads, pâtés, chutneys, quiches and pies are also lovingly made in the Whitmuir kitchen. And you can tell those preparing the food are people who really care about what they produce. The decor throughout the bedrooms is utterly charming It would be rude not to fill our basket with goodies while we stopped by, allowing us to select some wonderful ingredients for dinner, which we prepared back at the house, making the most of A home from home – what was on our doorstep. After a day of cycling, a good feed and a peaceful night sleep, I Holidaying in the Scottish Borders made another executive decision. We couldn’t visit this part of dressing . The service and and a great buffet selection, to explore, especially for those the Borders without booking attention to detail is second to you won’t go hungry. The fruit who love walking and fishing. into Stobo Castle. This is the none. With more than 80 different smoothies proved to be a hit What’s more, Callands Cottage ultimate retreat for relaxation and face and body treatments, it’s also and if you’re feeling a little provides a great gateway not pampering and ideal if you want to difficult to know where to begin, naughty, the scones are delicious. only to the Borders but also spoil somebody or you just want but I can highly recommend a On return to Callands, we to Lanarkshire and for those to spoil yourself. You will leave facial and a hot stone massage. In spent our last evening on the coming from further south, a day feeling a million dollars, although fact, this could become a regular tennis court within the grounds trip to Edinburgh should not be you’ll find you may not want to occurrence. and as the sun began to set, we overlooked. Another successful leave. As well as our treatments, made the most of the outside staycation, showcasing the scale Nestled within its own beautiful we indulged in the whole spa dining area, enjoying more good of Scotland’s fantastic thriving grounds, complete with Japanese experience with a swim in the food and wine, all be it we were tourism industry. garden, as soon as you step pool, time in the crystal steam wrapped up in blankets. through the doors you feel at ease. room and a session in the giant After only a couple of days in For more information and to Warmly greeted, we were shown hydrospa. The lunch too did not the Borders, you soon realise book visit Unique Cottages to the dressing room where disappoint. With a wide selection you’ve barely scratched the https://www.unique-cottages. we would change into our fluffy of freshly prepared healthy dishes surface, with so much more co.uk/cottages/south/

Beautiful fittings around the cottage adds to a special holiday experience Two double bedrooms and two twins lends this cottage to larger groups getting together 42 / COUNTRYlifestyle